(07-18) 17:16 PDT SAN FRANCISCO -- Until a few years ago, wildlife biologists weren't even sure wolverines lived in California.

The reclusive, bear-like carnivore, which is actually genetically closer to a weasel than a bruin, hadn't been seen in the state by scientists since the 1920s when the fur trade delivered a near-fatal blow to the species. Recent photos suggest that at least a few of the mighty creatures remain - but a live, furry sighting has eluded animal experts of late.

Until now.

Sort of.

On Friday, the San Francisco Zoo opened up its wolverine exhibit - and while far from the high country where the carnivore is said to roam, the zoo's two newest residents provide a rare window into the lives of one of North America's rarest mammals.

"I was expecting to see a very fierce and confident animal, and that's what I saw," said San Jose resident Kevin Lee, 38, who wanted to be among the first to see the wolverine, mostly because it was the mascot of his alma mater, the University of Michigan.

Debuting before a large group of spectators, the wolverines ambled briskly about their plot of pretend wilderness. They appeared to take well to their new home of rocks, trees and pools, while their Teddy-bear-like good looks and cogent facial expressions endeared them to the crowd.

"I just want to hug one," said one onlooker.

Bad idea, said zoo curator Corinne MacDonald. She described the animals simply as ferocious.

The near mythic reputation of the wolverine, she said, stems from its behavior as a relentless predator and unflinching survivor. The animal's muscular build, oily fur and wide, padded feet allow it to endure high mountain altitudes and snowy winters - and it's one fierce fighter.

While its natural diet consists of mostly small animals - the creature isn't particularly large itself, growing to only about 45 pounds - the wolverine has been known to take down deer and small elk, then defend its prey from wolves and grizzlies. Not exactly your cuddly poodle type.

Life at the zoo will certainly be easier that kind of scrapping in the trees for the pair, a 7-year-old male and 13-year-old female.

The animals were brought from the Columbus Zoo in Ohio, and are among only a dozen or so on display across North America.

The wolverines aren't likely to reproduce, MacDonald said, because the female is nearing the end of the animal's natural life span. The female's age, though, gives her the upper hand over her stronger, faster companion, as seen in a game of chase on Friday.

"Look how she's cutting corners and making him run around the whole exhibit," MacDonald said. "She's smart."